The Public Relations Officer of the Students' Association, Rhys Harrison, resigned his portfolio last week and then withdrew his resignation.

These actions followed the circulation of a petition calling for a vote of no-confidence in him.

Rhys described the petition as "irresponsible". He subbitted [sic] his resignation because he had no wish to indulge in any "petty in-fighting" to maintain his position.

After "discussions" with Exec members, he reversed his decision.

The petition, initiated by arts' student Simon Arnold on 23 May was the result of dissatisfaction with the way the public relations portfolio was being handled.

Simon said his opinion was reinforced after reading an article destined for last week's Salient. (The article later disappeared from Salient's Office).

But, after obtaining the 75 signatures necessary to call a Special General Meeting. Simon said he became "quite disgusted" with the situation.

The "petty intrigues and prejudices I encountered were quite repugnant", he said.

He indicated he had become sufficiently disillusioned with the petition to allow it to lapse.

"But I felt a responsibility towards the 90-odd students who had signed the petition".

He handed the petition to Denis Phelps who made a statement on its future.

"As association reporter I believe that Rhys Harrison fully deserves to be removed from Exec for his performance to date.

"In saying this I deny any desire to lake over Rhys' portfolio and in fact, would decline the co-option if offered it.

"Rhys demonstrated his lack of confidence in himself by resigning.

"But, in view of the imminence of Open Day I feel he should be given another chance.

Late News

Rhys Harrison announed at Executive last night he was resigning his portfolio, effective from June 13.

"Denis was defeated by me in the last election", he said.

Commenting on his attendance record (see Exec column on page three) he said he was working until late into the evening during the vacation and, for the first term, did not finish work until 8.30 p.m. on Mondays when most Exec meetings are held.

Rhys replied to the charges about Open Day that his job was only to publicise it.

The accusations about his continual interruptions in the last Exec meting he felt were "petty."

He had suggested to the President of the Students' Association, Doug White, that the Exec should listen to the Radio Show.

"Doug gave me his consent before the meeting" he said.

Rhys denied accusations that he could do more for the Radio Show. He was, he said, to publicise it not necessarily report it.

The NZBC feel that liason is unsatisfactory.